Climate changing quicker than species can adapt

A study from the University of Arizona finds that the rate of adaptation is slower than ideal for species adjusting to climate change, according to The Guardian. It notes that species in the past have adapted to climate change, but the adaptation changes necessary might not keep pace with global warming.

The researchers analyzed data from 540 living species, including amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Results of that analysis show that land animals will not be able to evolve quickly enough to adapt to the dramatically warmer climate expected by the century’s end.

There is just not enough time for species to adjust, experts say. Changes to body shape, for example, take generations. Changing habitats, another adjustment, is rare and also isn’t an option for most species.

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